The Effects of Adolescent Methamphetamine Exposure on Executive Functions in Adult Mice [Poster]

Abstract

Methamphetamine (METH) is a highly exploited, psycho-stimulant drug that leads to neurotoxicity from oxidative damage in the dopaminergic regions of the brain. Recent data indicates increases in adolescent METH abuse. This key developmental window is characterized by changes in the striatum and pre-frontal cortices where normal alterations are already occurring. We hypothesize that METH exposure during adolescence will cause differences in adult executive functions for both male and female mice. To test executive functioning of adult mice exposed to METH during adolescence, C57Bl6J mice were injected with either 5 mg/kg of METH or saline for ten days starting on post-natal day (PND) 22. Following the injection period, the mice underwent a two month wash-out period. On PND 90, mice began assessment in a 5-Choice Serial Reaction Time Task Operant Chamber (5CSRTT). This chamber uses both positive punishment and positive reinforcement to shape discriminate responses. We found trending differences between METH-exposed males and saline males for correct responses, omissions, and correct latency. These are associated with changes in attention, hyperactivity, and decision-making abilities. Our results suggest that gender-specific effects may occur. Overall, the trending differences show that following adolescent exposure to METH, long-term cognitive deficits may persist into adulthood. [Poster]